The 10 Best Mini Waffle Makers

Instead of investing in a cumbersome electric model, if you're living in a small space, you might try this Nordic Ware Silver Dollar Griddle (about $25). Allowing you to prepare seven 3-inch nibbles with each use, it features a cast aluminum construction and a nonstick finish.

Put a smile on your plate with the CucinaPro Animal (around $29), which has seven reservoirs that create the grinning faces of various critters, including a bear, a cat, and a deer. But don't worry, because although this might sound intricate, it's just as simple to use as any other.

It doesn't matter whether you're craving sweet or savory, you can jazz up any meal with the Dash Waffle Bowl Maker (appx. $35). Fast and uncomplicated, it is offered in three appealing colors and has slick, easy-to-clean surfaces that will get you out of the kitchen quickly.

When you have toddlers, finding foods they'll eat is often all about presentation, a need this Brentwood Animal Shapes (around $21) takes care of nicely. It'll help you churn out cute, but edible, animal friends that are petite and not overwhelming.

You'll have your family running to the table with the Presto FlipSide (about $31), which was designed to produce golden Belgian waffles. Of course, this means that it's fairly thick, but it locks into a vertical position for hassle-free storage.

The Finether Multi-Plate (appx. $49) itself isn't exactly diminutive, but it creates tiny treats with the help of its interchangeable parts that include cartoon cake and doughnut plates. Because these are removable, this model is also simpler to clean than many.

Although the Cuisinart Round Classic (about $20) is more medium than miniature, it isn't as tough to store as some larger models, since it stands on end for a smaller footprint. Plus, it has a light that indicates when your food is finished, so you don't have to guess.

It's hard to think that you could have any more fun at breakfast than with the Babycakes Mini (about $15), since it produces waffle sticks that are perfect for dunking, coating, and sharing. In fact, these sweet bites have been known to please even the pickiest of eaters.

You'll get four heart-shaped treats with each press of the Holstein Housewares Magenta (appx. $26), making it enjoyable for everything from brunch to sleepover snacks. When you're finished, it cleans up in a snap, thanks to its nonstick coating.

Not only is the Dash Mini Maker (appx. $15) relatively inexpensive, it cooks quickly, taking you from batter to serving dish in about two minutes. And unlike many others, it's offered in a wide range of colors, which is great if you prefer a coordinated kitchen.